Mikell (phi) vs STL
Coleman (atl) vs DET
Phillips (nyg) thurs night game v WAS
McGowan (chi) @ MIN
Doughty (was) thurs night game @ NYG

2 per tackle
1 per assist
5 INT
3 sack

Need to start 2.

I guess my question is, is Mikell a safe bet to start this week?
I kind of like Doughty this week for some reason.

1. Phillips
2. Coin flip

I think Doughty could be a good choice. He played well at the end of last year.

I would go with Mikell and Doughty, both of whom have good matchups.

Phillips may not start, Coleman is nothing special, and who knows what is up in Chicago.

I'd eliminate McGowan for now; there's no guarantee he gets 40+ snaps, and risking a part time player while you've got other every-down options is a bad idea. Coleman probably will be a well below replacement level player. The heavy mix of zone coverage that Mike Smith will want to use in Atlanta will kill Coleman's value, as will the rangy group of LBs in front of him and a run supporter like Milloy next to him.

That leaves Doughty, Mikell and Phillips. Phillips carries the same concerns that McGowan does. Until he's an every down starter, he's a risky play ahead of your other two options. Both Doughty and Mikell are solid players and both look to have reasonable matchups. Unless you're convinced Phillips can have a Richard Marshall like part time impact, go the safe route here.

thanks guys. Mikell and Doughty is where I am headed.